Edmonton Police have confirmed they’re investigating 18 cases of extortion in the area, with the belief there could be more cases.
According to EPS, members of South Asian businesses have received messages through third-party texting apps demanding a large payment, if the victims did not comply, fires are set at newly build show-homes. There have been follow up demands, refusal to pay has led to violent acts like drive by shootings.
The fires were started by a group of young men seen carrying gas cans, six young men have been arrested after being connected to the shootings and arsons.
Parminder Singh, 20, was arrested on 12 firearms-related charges stemming from an incident on October 19th, Singh remains in custody.
Hassan Dembil, 18, Manav Heer, 18, Ravinder Sandu, 19, and a youth were all charged with arson-related offences in relation to a house fire in the Cy Becker area on Dec. 19.
They have since been released.
Arjun Sahnan, 19, was arrested on five firearms-related charges during a Dec. 30 traffic stop. He has since been released.
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